VIDEO: Essien scores first goal after securing Indonesian work permit
Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien is off the mark for Persib Bandung after securing a work permit to play in Indonesia.
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However, the former Chelsea man put those troubles behind him on Saturday when he came off the bench to power home a header for his side in a 2-2 draw against PS TNI in the second week of Indonesia's Liga 1.
Essien was among a group of 12 foreign footballers and coaches were issued with work permits (IMTA's) by Indonesia's Manpower Ministry. An IMTA is a prerequisite for the long-stay permit, known in Indonesia as Kitas. The Indonesian government requires foreign footballers to hold both documents to play in a professional league.
After a series of mix-ups with the Indonesian Immigration Office, the ministry decided to make it easier for the overseas players and coaches to obtain their documents as the league has already entered its second week.
Watch Essien's goal below;
The decision to issue the permits was made after the ministry held a special meeting last Thursday with the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Liga 1 officials and the Sports Ministry.
Other players who received the permit for a long stay in the east Asian country include Essien's Persib teammate Carlton Cole and Madura United's Peter Odemwingie.
Essien scored the opener from a corner in the 50th minute after coming-off the bench for the start of the second half before Indonesian international striker Rizal doubled their lead in the 52nd minute at the Pakansari Stadium.
However, their hosts, PS TNI fought back to level the score leaving Persib in 10th place with only two points from two games.